Taking a job your heart isnt in ?

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · May 8, 2013

Glad it worked out.

However, you (general as well as the OP) should be realistic about what to expect in your first job.

The fact is that very few grads land in their dream job right upon graduation--many nurses start off in other areas and work their way over to it. If you're not willing to settle for anything less than your dream job/facility, you may be waiting...and waiting...and waiting...and the longer you wait before being hired as a new grad, the harder it becomes to get hired without experience.

The first job is more about gaining experience and learning how to put what you learned into nursing school into practice. In all honesty, that first year is going to suck most of the time regardless of where you work and what you do, even if it's your desired specialty.

Also, that first job doesn't have to be forever, nor does it say anywhere that you can't look for other jobs while working this first one, though it would benefit you the most if you waited at least a year before leaving it.

Not saying you should jump at any job that you get, or that you accept something that you know you will be truly miserable with. Those are decisions that only you can make. But I will advise you to think long and hard before turning down any job as a new grad, as the next job offer may be a long time in coming. In short, don't take it lightly or for granted.

Best of luck with the job hunt!

MrChicagoRN, RN · May 9, 2013

I didn't like my first job much. But after a year they closed the unit and sent me to where I wanted to be in the first place.

amoLucia · May 10, 2013

I didn't like my first job much. But after a year they closed the unit and sent me to where I wanted to be in the first place.

Must have been KARMA!

TexanNurseYeeHaw · Jul 19, 2013

This may have been a dumb move, but i turned down a job that had everything i was looking for! but my heart wasnt in that position. I took a chance. I would follow your gut. Dont do it for the money, do it for what youre passionate about.